RIDE WYOMING'S BACKCOUNTRY DISCOVERY ROUTE
THE WYOMING BACKCOUNTRY DISCOVERY ROUTE
An Off The Beaten Path Through The Bighorn Mountains
Start this once in a lifetime journey in the small western town off Ten Sleep, Wyoming and end up on top of the Bighorn Mountains at Burgess Junction. Featuring gorgeous overlooks, varied terrain, and solitude, this section of the Backcountry Discovery Route is one not easily forgotten.
he adventure motorcycling non-profit Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) released the Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route in January of 2022. BDR partnered with stakeholders in Wyoming including Wyoming’s Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Washakie County Visitor’s Council, and tourism stakeholders in eight other counties.
The Wyoming Backcountry Discovery Route is the 11th such route developed by BDM, crossing Wyoming on primitive dirt roads and offering adventurers a way to explore some of the most primitive lands in the lower 48 by motorcycle.
Riders passing through Washakie County can also experience the Big Horn Mountains and Ten Sleep Canyon along US Hwy 16. Dining, lodging, museums and other attractions are found in the local communities of Ten Sleep and Worland.
Ride Along With Niko On Wyoming’s BCDR
Experience what riding the Backcountry Discovery Route is like with a series of videos from adventure motorcyclist, Niko Kavallar. Niko chronicled his adventure on camera and shared it with Bighorn Mountain Country. We’ll be posting videos over the next 10 days detailing his entire journey on the section beginning in Ten Sleep.
Mist and Cliffs at Ten Sleep Canyon
I woke early at Ten Sleep Brewing’s campground, greeted by the soft sound of rain gently tapping on my tent. Despite the cozy rhythm, I knew Wyoming weather could be unforgiving. Outside, the air was damp and crisp—unusual for an August morning, but the perfect setup for adventure.
The previous night, we’d relaxed with cold craft beers and delicious Indian tacos from Linda’s food truck, swapping stories from days on the trail. Refreshed from hot showers and a restful sleep, we rolled out into the morning fog. Soon, we climbed into the spectacular Ten Sleep Canyon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs partially hidden by swirling mists. I sent my drone skyward, capturing stunning aerial footage of this surreal landscape, a scene that felt straight from a dream.
Every epic ride begins with the right fuel stop. What’s your favorite pre-ride ritual or go-to place?
Conquering the Slick Wyoming Gumbo
As we pushed deeper into the Bighorns, conditions quickly changed from scenic to challenging. The infamous “Wyoming Gumbo” clay transformed the trail into an impossibly slick surface, unlike any mud I’d encountered before. Even the simplest maneuvers became tricky, and inevitably, my front tire washed out, tossing me unceremoniously into the slippery muck.
Yet, lying there laughing and covered in mud, I remembered this is exactly why we ride—to embrace challenges and collect unforgettable stories.
Have you faced terrain that truly tested your limits? Share your best trail tales and toughest rides!
Hyattville’s Hidden History
Rolling into the quaint town of Hyattville gave us a moment to catch our breath and gather our thoughts for the next leg. Nearby, we explored ancient petroglyphs etched into stone, mysterious carvings that offered a tangible link to the region’s rich past. Standing among these symbols felt humbling and profound, connecting us deeply to the timeless landscape we were traveling through.
What unexpected cultural or historical discoveries have you made while riding? Drop your favorite hidden gems below!
Lost and Found in the Bighorn’s Mystical Fog
Our climb higher into the Bighorn Mountains plunged us into thick, silent fog. Sounds muffled, visibility nearly vanished, and at one point, a riding partner disappeared behind me. Retracing my path on foot through dense mist heightened every sense—the eerie quiet made the unseen wildlife seem closer, the wilderness more profound.
Finding my friend stuck but safe, we pushed onward together, the misty woods leaving us awed and forever connected by this shared moment.
Has a wilderness experience ever left a lasting mark on you? Share your moments of solitude or teamwork from the trail.
Wet, Cold, but Triumphant—Arriving at Burgess Junction
Finally rolling into Burgess Junction, exhausted and drenched by icy drizzle, we found refuge at Bear Lodge. Stepping into its warm atmosphere was deeply comforting. We shared hearty meals and laughter, reflecting on what we’d overcome—the lessons in preparedness, adaptability, and respect for the rugged Wyoming wilderness.
Riding the WYBDR is about embracing challenges and savoring victories, however small they might seem. This final stretch reminded me vividly of that truth.
What’s one essential piece of advice you’d offer someone tackling the WYBDR for the first time? Let’s help each other ride safer and smarter!